AI May Soon Replace Apps, Says Meta’s Chief Technology Officer

The way people interact with technology could soon see a major shift, one that changes daily habits without most even realizing it. Instead of opening separate apps for every need, the future might involve simply telling an AI what task needs to be done—and watching it handle everything behind the scenes.

This prediction comes from Andrew Bosworth, Chief Technology Officer at Meta, who shared his thoughts in a recent conversation hosted by venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz.

A New Way to Use Technology

Right now, choosing the right app is part of the digital routine. Want to listen to music? Open Spotify. Need a quick grocery order? Tap into Instacart. Bosworth believes this habit could soon disappear.

In his words, he would rather “simply ask an AI to play music” instead of deciding which app to open. This shift points toward a world where AI becomes the central interface for managing digital life, eliminating the need for jumping between dozens of apps.

Instead of people managing apps, AI would manage tasks based on users’ voice or text instructions, making technology more intuitive and reducing the friction many feel when navigating a crowded app ecosystem.

Freepik | AI simplifies tech by managing tasks with voice/text, freeing you from apps.

How This Could Impact Companies

Bosworth warned that although this transition might benefit users, it could bring big challenges for businesses. Companies that have spent years building brand loyalty might struggle as their names become less visible.

As he put it, “Brands want people to form attachments, but users just want results.” Without the regular opening of branded apps, companies might find it harder to stay top of mind.

Streaming giants like Netflix and Spotify, for example, could feel this impact. Right now, their success relies heavily on users choosing their app directly, either through subscriptions, ads, or premium models. An AI interface making choices behind the scenes could disrupt these traditional revenue strategies.

The Bigger Pressure on Software Services

The effect of AI isn’t limited to consumer habits. A recent study by consulting group AlixPartners highlighted how AI is putting pressure on software companies. More than 100 mid-sized businesses are facing what the study called a “big squeeze.”

Here’s how it’s happening:

– On one side, fast-moving startups are using AI to create cheaper, more flexible solutions.
– On the other hand, tech giants like Microsoft and Salesforce are heavily investing billions into AI innovation, making it harder for smaller players to compete.

AlixPartners believes many midsize companies may not survive the next two years unless they adapt quickly.

AI systems are proving they can replicate the core functions of traditional software at a fraction of the cost. This reality is forcing companies to rethink their value propositions and find ways to stay relevant when AI can perform tasks faster and cheaper.

The Net Positive Outcome

Instagram | boztank | According to Bosworth, user benefits will prioritize performance and cost over brand recognition.

Despite the hurdles businesses may face, Bosworth emphasized that the overall change would benefit users. Performance and cost-effectiveness would become the main factors, not brand recognition or flashy marketing.

He explained it simply: “What matters is how well the job gets done and at what price. Some companies might not like it, but that’s where things are heading.”

This viewpoint highlights a broader trend where technology is moving toward utility and efficiency, stripping away the layers of branding that once dominated digital experiences.

What’s Next?

The idea that AI could take over the role of apps isn’t just speculation. It’s already beginning to take shape.

Voice assistants, reasoning models, and AI agents are evolving quickly. They are beginning to manage tasks, make decisions, and deliver results without the user needing to scroll through endless menus or tap through different apps.

In a sense, using technology could soon feel less like managing a toolbox and more like giving instructions to a trusted assistant.

While the shift might create winners and losers among businesses, for most users, it would mean less time fiddling with devices and more time focusing on what matters.